As National Apprenticeship Week 2025 unfolds, Kia is celebrating the success stories of its apprentices, highlighting the transformative impact of the Kia Apprenticeship Programme. With the theme of ‘Celebration Friday’ on 14 February, Kia is shining a spotlight on the opportunities its apprenticeships offer, the inspiring journeys of its apprentices, and the vital role of the Kia Academy in shaping the future of automotive talent.
One Year of the Kia Academy: A Milestone in Training Excellence
Just over a year ago, Kia opened the doors to its state-of-the-art training facility, the Kia Academy in Derby, in partnership with Skillnet, the UK’s leading provider of automotive apprenticeships. This strategic investment underscores Kia’s commitment to developing a new generation of skilled professionals, particularly in electrification, through its bespoke apprenticeship programme.
Designed to provide hands-on experience and technical expertise, Kia’s apprenticeship pathways include roles such as Light Vehicle Technician, Service Advisor, and Combined Service and Parts Advisor. These apprenticeships offer a compelling alternative to traditional education, allowing participants to ‘earn while they learn’ and gain real-world experience with Kia’s dealer partners.
Kia Apprenticeships: Opening Doors for All
The Kia Apprenticeship Programme is designed to be accessible to individuals from all walks of life. Unlike conventional academic routes, it offers a dynamic learning environment where apprentices acquire essential skills, knowledge, and behaviors needed for a successful career in the automotive industry.
Apprentices begin their journey when a Kia dealer partner posts a vacancy, followed by an appraisal meeting with Skillnet to determine suitability. Successful candidates then embark on their apprenticeship, balancing practical work experience with technical training at the Kia Academy. Upon completion, graduates can further their careers with a Higher Apprenticeship (Level 4 or 5), advancing their expertise and professional development.
Celebrating Apprenticeship Success
The success of the Kia Apprenticeship Programme is best illustrated by the achievements of its apprentices. Karl Wilson, an apprentice at SG Petch Kia Darlington, won gold for Light Vehicle Technology at the 2024 IMI World Skills Competitions, an accolade that recognizes excellence in technical proficiency. Reflecting on his journey, Karl credits the Kia Academy’s cutting-edge training and dedicated staff for supporting his growth.
Other apprentices share similar inspiring stories. Alexander Badcock of Brayley’s Kia Enfield transitioned from a university degree in sport and exercise science to an apprenticeship that reignited his passion for hands-on work. Leah Burkinshaw of Perrys Kia Huddersfield leveraged her background in electrical installation to explore new frontiers in automotive electrification. Finley Thompson of Brindley Kia Wolverhampton found Kia’s structured programme and personal coaching invaluable in his professional development.
Post-apprenticeship success is equally compelling. Daniel Smart, a former Kia apprentice, is now advancing towards his Master Technician certification, Level 4 EV qualification, and MOT licence. His journey underscores Kia’s commitment to long-term career progression and skills enhancement.
From Apprentice to Leader: Kia’s Own Success Stories
Kia’s dedication to apprenticeships is reflected not only in its trainees but also in its leadership. Both the Technical Training Manager and Centre Manager at the Kia Academy began their careers as apprentices, proving the long-term viability of this career path.
Mark Godson, Technical Training Manager at the Kia Academy, began his career as an apprentice before transitioning into training—a role he finds deeply rewarding. Similarly, Mark Daley, Centre Manager at the Kia Academy and Skillnet representative, champions apprenticeships as an essential pathway for hands-on learning and career advancement.
Their leadership ensures that Kia apprentices receive not only top-tier technical training but also life skills such as first aid, financial literacy, and personal development—elements often overlooked in traditional education.
A Future Built on Talent
With approximately 60 Kia Apprenticeships currently available through Skillnet and Kia’s dealer partners, the opportunity to join this transformative programme has never been greater. Whether transitioning from a different career path, seeking a more practical alternative to university, or aiming to specialize in automotive electrification, Kia Apprenticeships offer a structured, rewarding, and future-focused career path.
As Kia celebrates National Apprenticeship Week 2025, the message is clear: apprenticeships are not just about learning a trade—they are about forging a future. With its cutting-edge training facilities, dedicated mentors, and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Kia is empowering the next generation of automotive professionals to drive their careers forward.
